The UAF is considering two candidates for the position of head coach of the Ukrainian national team

The friendly match against Albania, scheduled for March 31, 2026, will be Serhiy Rebrov’s last at the helm of the national team. The head coach does not plan to renew his contract with the association after the conclusion of the March training camp. 

According to Sport.ua, the main contenders for the vacant position are the current coach of Ukraine’s U-21 national team, Unai Melgosa, and Polissya coach Ruslan Rotan, who previously led the Olympic team.

The coaching staff change comes as the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle draws to a close, with Sweden and Poland set to face off in the final round of qualifying. Unai Melgosa is seen as a specialist who will ensure continuity in working with young players, while Ruslan Rotan’s candidacy is based on his experience in club football and his successful performance at the Olympic Games. The UAF will announce its final decision after the official expiration of the contract with the current coaching staff.

Defender Vitalii Mykolenko commented on the Ukrainian national team’s defeat in the match against the Swedish national team in the World Cup qualifying playoff semifinals.

Sabo, Kopolovets, and Fedorchuk also criticized Rebrov.